Program Notes
A New Kingdom - During Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, Pharaoh envisioned a golden age of monumental splendor. Vast cities rose to glorify gods and kings alike, built using forced labor of the enslaved Hebrews, whose suffering fueled Egypt’s greatness. Ark of Bulrushes - Amid this cruelty, Pharaoh’s daughter discovered an infant hidden in a woven ark upon the Nile. Named Moses, the child was raised as royalty, growing alongside Pharaoh’s own son. Pi-Ramesses - Pharaoh’s ambition took form in Pi-Ramesses, a magnificent city rising from the Nile Delta. Though lush and sacred, the land was unstable, forcing constant rebuilding. As demands grew, more Hebrews were pressed into labor - and Pharaoh’s paranoia deepened. A King’s Command - Fearing rebellion, Pharaoh sought to quietly limit the Hebrews by ordering their midwives to kill newborn boys. When they refused, he issued a merciless decree: soldiers would slaughter every Hebrew infant son. Moses survived only through his mother’s faith and sacrifice. Khonsu & Thoth - Haunted by his choices, Pharaoh sought solace in the Gods. Thoth assured him his actions served a higher purpose, while Khonsu soothed his spirit with a lullaby. Upon Pharaoh’s eventual death, his son inherited both the crown - and an unfinished dream. Pharaoh of the Exodus & The Plagues - Years after leaving Egypt, Moses returned as a prophet, demanding freedom for his people. The new Pharaoh refused and was faced with fantastical horrors. Plague after plague devastated Egypt, yet Pharaoh remained steadfast until the life of his only son was claimed. Broken, Pharaoh released the Hebrews. Pi-Hahiroth - Grief turned to fury. Pharaoh pursued the fleeing people to a city near the shores of the Red Sea, determined to reclaim his legacy and save his nation. He would not be the weak link in this mighty dynasty. He was... the Pharaoh of the Exodus.
